Getting a Maine hunting license is required of all hunters who plan on taking wildlife from public state lands. Hunters who are found to be practicing their sport without the proper hunting permit may be charged with poaching, which carries steep fines and penalties. To buy hunting licenses in Maine, hunters must complete the hunting license application process administered by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The Maine wildlife department has many different hunting permits available to both residents and non residents visiting the state. Hunting license categories are divided by certain factors such as the applicant’s residency status, age, the type of animal being hunted and the length of the hunting license’s validity. Fees for hunting licenses also vary based on the same criteria. Prior to buying hunting licenses, applicants must first meet all hunting license requirements set by the Maine wildlife department. One of these requirements is to take and pass the state’s required hunting education course. Maine hunting education courses cover a variety of topics such as hunting ethics, firearm safety, wildlife conservation and tips on surviving in the wild. During the hunting license application process, applicants must also submit documentation proving the applicant’s age, residency status and identity. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife offers hunters two options for buying hunting licenses: online through the MOSES Hunting and Fishing license system or in person at a local wildlife department office. For more information on Maine hunting licenses, read the topics outlined below:

What types of hunting licenses are available in Maine?

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife offers a number of hunting permit options for both residents of the state and non residents visiting the state. Categories of hunting licenses are divided based on factors such as the applicant’s age, whether or not the applicant is a resident of Maine, the type of animal the applicant plans to hunt on state lands and the length of time the license will be valid for. Prior to completing the hunting license application process, applicants must present certain documents to wildlife officials including proof of identity, proof of age (if buying certain permits such as the senior or junior hunting licenses) and proof of residency, for residents of Maine who would like to get the residential hunting license at a discounted rate. Applicants must also submit proof they have completed their hunter education requirements. The various hunting license options in Maine include combination fishing and hunting licenses, small game hunting licenses, junior hunting licenses, archery hunting licenses, war veteran hunting licenses, senior citizen hunting licenses, disabled person hunting licenses and turkey hunting licenses.

The Maine wildlife department also offers hunters the option of buying apprentice hunting licenses, which allow the holder to hunt prior to completing the hunter education requirements, so long as the applicant is hunting alongside a licensed hunter 21 years of age or older. Hunting license fees vary based on the applicant’s residency status and the length of time before the license expires. For example, hunters buying residential hunting licenses will pay less than hunters buying non resident hunting licenses. Likewise, hunters buying annual hunting licenses will pay more than hunters buying short-term hunting licenses.

How do I purchase hunting licenses in Maine?

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife offers both residents and non residents a number of options to buy hunting licenses in the state. However, prior to completing the hunting license application process, applicants must first make sure they choose the correct hunting license. Applicants must also complete the hunter education requirements, as well as submit all required documentation (i.e. proof of residency, proof of hunter education, proof of age, etc.).

To buy hunting licenses in Maine, applicants can either submit a hunting license application online or in person. Applicants can buy hunting licenses online through the MOSES Hunting and Fishing license online system. Applicants can buy hunting licenses in person by visiting a local ME Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife office. Proof of identity, age and residency can typically be proven using a state-issued photo ID card or valid driver’s license.

Am I required to take any hunting classes to be eligible for a Maine hunting license purchase?

The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife requires all hunters in Maine to first complete the state’s hunter education course requirements prior to completing the hunting license application process. There are over 350 courses offered each year, with roughly 7,500 students in total. Exemptions to the hunter education requirements apply to all hunters who have previously held a Maine hunting license. Hunters who have held a hunting license previously can renew hunting licenses without having to retake the hunter education course. Hunting education courses cover a variety of topics, such as firearm safety, wildlife conservation and maintenance, survival skills and hunting ethics. The Maine wildlife department also offers variations of the traditional hunting course. Course options include the following:

Basic hunting license course

Archery hunting license course

Crossbow hunting license course

Trapping license course

Once hunting license applicants have passed their hunting education courses, they are issued course completion certificates, which they can use to submit a hunting license application to the local wildlife department.

How do I replace hunting licenses in Maine?

Hunters in Maine dealing with lost or stolen hunting licenses can order hunting license replacements through the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. To do so, visit an ME wildlife department location, such as a local town clerk, and ask to complete a replacement hunting license application. Hunters must present certain identifying documents, such as a state-issued ID card or valid driver’s license. Once verified, hunters can buy hunting license replacements for a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. All throughout the United States, hunters safety classes must be completed in order for applicants to obtain their desired hunting permits and stamps. Failure to take this specific course will result in the rejection of your hunting license request, thus requiring you to start over.

Depending on your state of residence, you may be able to buy hunting licenses in a variety of ways, including online (through your state department’s portal), by mail, by phone or in person. Choose the option that is most convenient for you. Make sure to also have any type of official documentation and payment for fees on hand.

No. Different states have different limits and regulations on hunting licensure. Certain animals may be considered “prohibited species,” whereas other animals may be legal to hunt, so long as you have the necessary hunting permit/stamp. Keep in mind that if you do hunt for any type of prohibited species, you will be subject to serious consequences.

Yes. States typically offer various short-term hunters license options, such as one-day and one-week passes, to those who do not meet residency requirements. In order to receive issuance of a short-term hunting license, make sure to get in touch with your state/hunting wildlife department to find out the available methods you have to apply.

In the event your hunting credentials are lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed, contact your state hunting/wildlife department to order a hunting license replacement. You may have to make an in-person visit to a local office to complete the process. At the time of your replacement request, you may be asked to present your state driving license or another type of identification.